MDP: Niyaz’s arrest will hinder preparation for Council Election

Main opposition party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has condemned the arrest of its Deputy Chairperson, Ali Niyaz, saying it will hinder the party’s preparation for the upcoming Local Council Election.

MDP released a press statement shortly after Niyaz’s arrest on Friday night, alleging that the arrest, coming at a time when MDP was operating without a Chairperson, was a calculated move by government using its political influence to impede MDP in its preparation for the election.

“This party believes Ali Niyaz was arrested at such a critical time using political influence to straight-out stop this party’s preparations for the Local Council Election and to hinder party operations while it lacks a Chairperson,” read MDP’s statement.

MDP said that Niyaz was in charge of the party’s financial affairs and was MDP’s representative in the advisory committee for Local Council Election, set up my Elections Commission (EC). It said that Niyaz’s arrest therefore would hinder MDP’s preparations for the election.

MDP accused the government of using inappropriate use of its political clout and violating the right to freedom of expression.

It called out to the police force to protect rights of the people and provide space for political activities.

Niyaz was arrested from the demonstration held by Maldives United Opposition (MUO) in front of MDP Haruge on Friday evening to protest against the court decision to postpone Local Council Election.

Criminal Court has ordered that Niyaz bee remanded to seven days in house arrest.

Police reported that he was suspected of advocating gathering in a prohibited area and

attempting to create unrest.

An amendment to law on freedom of peaceful gatherings makes holding unpermitted protests an offense.